Main menu

Post navigation

Everyday Tips to Relieve Stress

Recently, you might have been asked the question: Are you stressed? This question seems unnecessary because with all of the activities you have going on, how is it possible to ever answer no? Youre either taking the kids to school, going to work, or trying to relax while knowing you have a million things to get done and we know its not exactly easy to balance 100% of the time. The feeling of being stressed is horrible and sometimes it just seems as if there arent enough hours in the day. We tell ourselves, If I just had one more day to do this, it would make my life so much easier. Most of us are guilty of procrastinating (if you arent, more power to you), but there comes a time when we realize we have to manage our time effectively to maintain our sanity. Whether its writing all of your tasks and plans for the week out in a leather calendar notebook or jotting a few notes down on your napkin at lunch, you must organize yourself so that you can find time to relax.

Some stress, eustress, is good for you. It forces you to sharpen your senses and stay on task. You may experience the positive affects of stress when you know you have to reach a deadline and it motivates you to complete a task. Negative stress, however, can be detrimental to your physical and mental health. In fact, stress is the cause of most sicknesses. This is why it is important to find a way to relax. Here are a few things you can consider doing:

Meditate. This can be as simple as taking a step back from what you are doing and taking a deep breath. Breathe in. Breathe out. You will be surprised how much of a different this makes. If you prefer to engage in a formal form of meditation you can sign up for a yoga class down the street and attend as you feel is necessary.

Make a List. Although this seems like a chore in itself, for some it is a good way to relieve stress. Once you know you have all of your notes to self written on paper (or your smart phone) you will feel more prepared for the days to come.

Focus on Your Surroundings. Take a look at what is around you when youre driving to work or taking out the trash. Notice the sky, the trees, the clouds, or the road… anything really. Be mindful of what is going on at that moment in time. It is important to look towards the future but sometimes we are so focused on it that we forget to embrace the present.

Listen to Music. Experts say that listening to music is one of the best ways to relax. The type of music that relieves stress is dependent of the individual so this gives you free range. So go ahead, bring out the headphones or turn up your volume in the car and get lost in a song that you love.

You can use these tips almost anywhere and anytime you feel the need to. Your friends at SelectQuote hope you find this short list helpful in relieving stress in your everyday life.